Scientist 1 - Virology

Merck•Rockville, MD

3d•Onsite

About The Position

This role supports assay development through commercial application of new and innovative service offerings within the biosafety testing space. The Scientist 1-Virology is responsible for the scientific integrity of technical work performed in the laboratory, making scientific observations, maintaining detailed workbooks/documentation, and ensuring all documentation meets professional/industry standards. A thorough understanding of company testing services, technical principles, and applications relevant to the position is also required.

Requirements

Ph.D. in a scientific discipline (e.g., Virology, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, etc.) -OR- Master’s Degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Virology, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, etc.) with 3+ years of scientific/laboratory experience -OR- Bachelor’s Degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Virology, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, etc.) with 4+ years of scientific/laboratory experience
External applicants must be eligible to work in the US.
This role does not offer sponsorship for work authorization.

Nice To Haves

Experience in cell culture (including mammalian), and aseptic techniques.
GMP and/or GLP experience and understanding of regulatory standards and root cause analysis.
Experience in Virology and working with virus’.
Broad working knowledge of field and experience with scientific laboratory practices, techniques, equipment, materials, and advanced mathematical calculations.
Preferred strong knowledge of laboratory regulations, quality assurance, and compliance standards.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills that have been demonstrated through presentations/seminars, oversight of projects, implementation of new services, etc.
Excellent time management skills
Highly collaborative as well as independent
Demonstrates a high level of initiative and leadership capabilities.
Effective coaching and training skills for complex and highly technical work.

Responsibilities

Performs testing in accordance with SOPs and regulations (cGMP and GLP)
Acts as subject matter expert (SME) for specific defined area(s) of the business.
Applies laboratory techniques and skills to complete experiments designed to address a variety of specific problems.
Independently applies basic scientific principles in the design of experiments and the development of assays.
For GLP studies, acts as Study Director.
Makes detailed observations, documents results, and performs data analysis.
Operates and maintains lab equipment as required by SOPs and testing procedures.
Utilizes applicable computer programs during testing and routine tasks (i.e. Word, Excel, Oracle, LIMS, BRIQS, etc.).
Communicates deviations/events, progress, and interim results to Study Management.
Leads the completion of event records.
Liaises with Quality Assurance and appropriate cross-functional departmental areas to close events and corrective actions identified during GxP laboratory testing.
Maintains a working knowledge of lab procedures and assays.
Creates/revises SOPs, laboratory records, and other related documentation as assigned.
Writes technical reports for internal use and collaborates on papers for external use.
Performs training of laboratory personnel as needed/assigned.
Contributes ideas and suggestions to improve standard laboratory techniques, protocols, processes, and equipment.
Acts as key driver/champion on project teams.
Complies with company health and safety regulations and procedures.